Electrical and Electronic Engineering

BEng

Electrical engineers are at the forefront of technological innovations. You will develop cutting-edge technologies and shape the future of numerous industries.

Location: Aston University, Birmingham

Course type
Full-time
Entry requirements
Duration

3 or 4 years

UCAS code(s)

H600

Start date

Course overview

Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) this degree will prepare you for a successful career in a diverse and in-demand sector.

Our dynamic program will enlighten your intellect through hands-on projects, cutting-edge research, and state-of-the-art facilities. From tinkering with circuits to designing smart systems, you'll experience the thrill of turning ideas into reality.

You will leave with the required skills to innovate, design, test and apply electrical and electronic components and systems to a range of sectors. This course goes beyond technical engineering to include transferable skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork, and commercial awareness.

Raiyan Al Hossain

“The facilities we use on our course act as a great tool for enhancing our learning experience. Throughout the course I have received a lot of support from academics whether this is working independently or as a part of a team”

Raiyan Al Hossain
Electrical and Electronic Engineering BEng
Current student

Why Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Aston University?

IET accreditation logo
Accredited degree
Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
Tef_gold
TEF Gold
Aston University was awarded Gold- the highest possible rating for Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2023)
Ranked 15th in the UK icon
Top 15 in the UK
Graduate Prospects 'On-Track', Complete University Guide 2023

Course description

BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering

The BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering degree at Aston University will put you in control, giving you the skills to lead and undertake complex engineering projects and provide you with the experiences you need to succeed in the industry.

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What we will provide
First-class teaching in the UK's second-largest city, delivered by IET-accredited academics, researchers, and visiting professors from industry, who will bring the subject to life. Access to the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies, one of the world’s leading photonics research centres. Use of world-class facilities to delve into practical lab sessions, including a dedicated electrical engineering student lab. You'll also receive free IET membership to access development materials and opportunities.

We are an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry. To find out more, visit here.

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What you will provide 
It is important to have a passion and interest in the sector, but more importantly to be innovative and curious. We are looking for students who are up for a challenge and not afraid to get stuck into practical work, to discover what technological devices you can develop for society.

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What skills we teach
You will develop a solid foundation of technical software and hardware skills. On the BEng program, you'll dive into the exciting realms of optical communications, the Internet of things, electrical power, and beyond. Along with fundamental transferable skills like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and logical thinking. You will also learn skills necessary for industry such as working to client briefs.

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Placement year
A placement year is a fantastic opportunity and highly encouraged with Aston University’s Electrical and Electronic Engineering course. Our award-winning careers and placement team and strong industry ties will provide you with exciting placement opportunities. Previous students have gained experience with leading companies, such as Red Bull Racing, Virgin Media, and Network Rail.

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Career prospects
Our Electrical and Electronic degree is ranked Top 15 in the UK for Graduate Prospects "On-Track". (Complete University Guide, 2023). Graduates from this in-demand degree have gone on to successful roles such as Electronic and Electrical Engineer, Verification Engineer, Software Engineer, and Embedded systems engineer for leading companies like Rolls Royce, Royal Air Force, and DSTL.

How you will learn

Your learning will take place in our single-site campus in the heart of Birmingham. As well as traditional lectures and seminars, you will spend over half of your study hours in workshops and practical sessions putting theory into practice.

You will be involved in individual and group project work throughout the programme, getting the opportunity to work with students across a range of engineering disciplines. The project work is designed to develop your skills as an engineer, as well as the communication, organisational, and leadership skills needed to work effectively in industry.

Here at Aston University, we are passionate about supporting our students. You will have a personal tutor throughout your studies to provide support and guidance. The Learning Development Centre is there to provide maths support, academic writing development, advice, and strategies for managing your studies.  You will also have the opportunity to get involved in PAL sessions, learning from your peers who have been through the course content before you.

Extracurricular activities:

  • You can join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals in our Electrical and Electronic Engineering Society
  • Challenge yourself in the annual Aston Hack hackathon, a frenzied 24 hours of designing, coding, and making.
  • Enhance your skills in the various aspects of robotics and programming through our brand new drone project.
  • Dive into the Micromouse Competition, where you design autonomous maze-solving robots.
  • Let your creativity run wild in our Design Challenge, whilst you tackle real-world engineering problems and propose innovative solutions.
  • Join our Formula Student team where you will design, build, and race your very own formula-style car.

What you will learn

On our innovative electrical engineering course theory meets practice whilst working in state-of-the-art labs equipped with cutting-edge equipment. From building complex circuits to programming intelligent devices, you'll gain invaluable hands-on experience that sets you apart in industry.

First year

The first year of this course will introduce you to the fundamental principles of the field, such as digital and analogue electronics, computing, mathematics, and project management. You will then take the skills you have learnt and apply and develop them in practical group projects.

Second year

With the fundamentals mastered in the first year, you will expand your knowledge and delve deeper into electronics theory and put that into practice in practical lab sessions. In the second year, you will also enhance your soft skills through employability modules.

Placement year

Consolidating your learnings in a work environment. For students who chose to spend a year in industry during their degree we will support you to find paid, professional placement in the field you will one day thrive within. This placement will help you gain invaluable practical experience in a real work environment giving you a huge boost to future career prospects.

Final year

In your final year, you will be able to choose a specialism you are passionate about by selecting from a broad range of career-focused options. You will then consolidate all your learnings from the course and apply them to an in-depth final project, based on your area of specialism.

Usaman Testimonial Image

From Aston to Sony Europe

BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering student who dedicated his passion to a university that pushed him to succeed, talks about his experience.

Facilities

Learn in our recent £1.3 million refurbished electronics labs. You will gain hands-on experience in our high-spec workspaces, with support from our exceptional technicians, meaning you will be industry-ready once you graduate. Here are just a few of the exciting facilities you will be able to access and use throughout our BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering course:

  • Soldering workshop
  • Power supply multimeter oscilloscope and function generator that are all integrated into one setting and connected to a PC
  • Workshop space where you can design and produce your prototypes with a laser cutter and a 3D printer
  • 24/7-hour access to the Electrical and Electronic Engineering student society room which has equipment for testing soldering, and a 3D printer that you can use in your free time to work on your own projects and expand your creativity.

You will also have access to an extensive network of computer facilities throughout your course, including high-performance PCs for industrial standard ECAD, Unix workstations, and a large number of embedded processors for lab work. These resources are complemented by specialist electronics, telecommunications, and networked laboratories and research facilities.

Course objectives

  1. Allows you to develop practical, intellectual, and employability skills in the field of electrical and electronic engineering, which will give you a competitive edge in the search for placements and graduate employment.
  2. Uses a practical, hands-on approach with engaging projects developing the engineering, problem-solving, analysis, management, and transferable skills required in graduate employment.
  3. Makes extensive use of project work to develop skills in teamwork, business, and communication.
  4. Provides you with an opportunity to gain industrial experience in an optional placement year.
  5. Ensures that you are provided with an up-to-date, broad-based and balanced study programme through strong links with industry & Aston University's internationally recognised researchers.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year you will study the following core modules:

Module TitleCredits
Electronic Engineering Fundamentals 30
Engineering Mathematics15
Computational Problem Solving15
Engineering Projects30
Electrical Principles15
Physical Principles15
Total120

Year 1 outcomes 

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

  • Be able to apply knowledge of circuit theory and principles to design basic electrical and electronic systems
  • Have demonstrated knowledge of and the ability to apply electrical and physics principles in engineering contexts
  • Be able to identify, evaluate and apply mathematical and computational approaches to problem-solving in electrical and electronic engineering
  • Be able to analyse measurement results and interpret technical data sheet specifications to make reasoned engineering design decisions
  • Have demonstrated the ability to effectively use electrical and electronic engineering components, test equipment, and design & analysis software
  • Be able to effectively report and communicate technical results and independent study both in writing and orally
  • Have developed self-study skills and independent learning skills to facilitate professional development
  • Have developed an appreciation of the team-working and project management skills required in professional engineering employment.

 

Year 2 modules

In your second year you will study the following core modules:

Module TitleCredits
Analogue and Power Electronics 15
Data Acquisition and Control 15
Signals and Systems 15
Engineering Team Project 15
Professional Engineering Practice 15
Communications Systems 15
Digital Design 15
Electrical Power Systems 15
Total120

Year 2 outcomes 

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

  • Have demonstrated a critical understanding of the principles of a broad range of topics in the field of electrical and electronic engineering and their relevance to contemporary systems and applications
  • Be able to apply an understanding of mathematical, scientific, and engineering concepts and analysis techniques to develop solutions to a wide range of electrical and electronic engineering problems
  • Have demonstrated the ability to design, evaluate and critically review solutions to an engineering problem subject to technical, commercial, and societal constraints
  • Be able to undertake independent critical analysis of information from a range of sources, evaluate and interpret it to provide valid, reasoned technical recommendations and arguments
  • Have the ability to identify and apply the practical lab and computer-aided design skills required for the development of new engineering designs and solutions
  • Be able to apply programming and computing skills to the structured design, modeling, and implementation of engineering systems
  • Be able to communicate both technical and non-technical information at appropriate levels for different audiences both in writing and orally
  • Have demonstrated the ability to apply industry-standard team working and project monitoring skills in the development of a prototype electrical and/or electronic system.

Placement year modules

If you opt for an integrated placement year, you will be fully supported throughout the process by our award-winning Careers and Placements team.

Placement Year

Module TitleCredits
Integrated Placement Year
 
120

Placement year outcomes

On successful completion of the placement year, you will be able to:

  • Develop new knowledge and understanding of a commercial engineering environment, the role of individuals within project teams, and associated professional engineering issues
  • Be able to communicate effectively in a professional engineering environment
  • Reflect on experience studying in a different culture leading to personal development in global awareness, intercultural competency, and adaptability.

Final year modules

In your final year, you will study the following core modules:

Module TitleCredits
Digital Signal Processing15
Final Year Project 45
Total60

You will choose four of the following optional modules, by selecting one of the streams below and one module from any other stream*

Digital Systems StreamCredits
Digital Systems Design15
Digital Systems Hardware15
Internet of Things15
Total45

or

Electrical Systems StreamCredits
Electrical Drive Train Applications15
Applied Power Electronics and Control15
Internet of Things15
Total45

or

Communication Systems StreamCredits
Digital Communications15
Radio/Wireless Communication Systems15
Optical Communications15
Total120

or the below optional module can go alongside any of the streams as the fourth module.

Module TitleCredits
Measurement, Automation, and Data Processing15
Total15

*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules. 

Final Year Outcomes 

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate a systematic understanding of established knowledge and practice in electrical and electronic engineering and an in-depth knowledge of current developments in a specialist area
  • Research, review, and evaluate information from a range of sources to develop knowledge and understanding of advanced concepts
  • Apply a conceptual understanding to evaluate different problem-solving approaches and methodologies and to identify new approaches to the solution
  • Use engineering judgment to recognise and adapt information that may be partially specified and resolve conflicting inter-disciplinary requirements
  • Adopt appropriate investigative techniques to devise and critically evaluate solutions to an engineering problem subject to multiple real-world constraints
  • Select and use appropriate communication styles and formats to convey information and ideas at an appropriate level for academic, technical, and non-technical audiences
  • Evaluate, reflect on, and communicate their personal strengths and limitations; to appreciate the implications of these and be able to identify appropriate professional development opportunities
  • Plan, monitor and implement a substantial individual contribution to an engineering project to successfully achieve a measurable set of objectives

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.


 

Entry requirements

  • A Levels

    BBC to include maths and a physical science or technology subject (standard offer)
    BCC to include maths and a physical science or technology subject (with an EPQ or core maths at grade B)
    CCC to include maths and a physical science or technology subject (contextual offer)

  • Physical science or technology subjects accepted include: Physics, Further Maths, Design Technology, Engineering Science and Electronics and Computer Science.

  • Contextual offers

    Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

  • Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (Science/Technical/Engineering types): DDM including the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics
  • Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade of Distinction with the following units at Distinction: - Mathematics for Engineering - Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems or Further Engineering Mathematics
  • National Diploma and Diploma (Science/Technical/Engineering types): DM including the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics. This BTEC requires 1 A-level at a minimum Grade B
  • Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade Distinction plus an A-Level in any subject at grade C, with the following units at Distinction: - Mathematics for Engineering - Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems or Further Engineering Mathematics.
    OR Achieve overall grade Distinction plus a BTEC Sub Dip/ Extended National Cert in any subject grade Merit, with the following units at Distinction: Mathematics for Engineering - Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems or Further Engineering Mathematics
    OR Achieve overall grade Distinction plus an A-Level in Math at grade C
  • Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (Science/Technical/Engineering type): DM plus 2 A-levels at a minimum grade B. Diploma should include the following units at Distinction if A level is not in Mathematics: (QCF) Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics
  • Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (any subject): DM plus 2 A-levels at a minimum grade B in Mathematics and Physics or similar physical science A level subject
  • National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (science/ technical/ engineering type): M plus 2 A-levels at a minimum Grade B. Diploma should include the following units at Distinction (QCF) if one of the additional A level is not in Mathematics: Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics
  • National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (any subject): M plus 2 A-levels at a minimum grade B in Mathematics and Physics or similar physical science A level subject
  • Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted.
  • 29 overall points with 5, 5, 4 in Higher Level subjects, including minimum grade 5 in Higher Level Maths and Physics.

Science or technical Access with at least 30 Distinctions and 15 Merits at level 3 including at least 15 credits at Level 3 in Mathematics and 15 credits at Level 3 in a physical science.

Degree level entry

Year 1 entry: We may consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a 1st year degree elsewhere. You must meet the GCSE and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference.

Year 2 entry: Please note that second year transfers are not part of the standard admissions process and is up to the discretion of the admissions team and programme director. Applications are only considered if there is space on that year of the programme. Typically, applicants for second year entry must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. Alongside this you must have gained (or be expected to gain) 65% overall and 120 credits on an equivalent programme at another recognised university. The equivalency of the programme is reviewed by the Admissions Tutor and you will be required to provide an official copy of the programme specification of this. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference.

Year 3: We will not be able to consider any application for Year 3

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and the whole application is reviewed which includes previous and predicted qualifications, any experience, references and motivation.

Whilst the grades listed here are our entry requirements, we understand that predicted grades are only an estimate. We will therefore consider applicants with predicted grades of CCC if the application is of a high standard which includes a strong personal statement and academic reference. However, any offer made will not be lower than stated here.

The following T Levels are accepted qualifications for this course:

  • Design and Development for Engineering Manufacturing Grade D
  • Engineering Manufacturing Processing and Control Grade D
  • Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering Manufacturing Grade D

Additionally to our Level 3 requirement, you will also need to have achieved:

GCSE Maths Grade C/4 and English Grade C/4 and above. 

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

International students can enter at Year 2 of this course having completed an undergraduate year one programme at the required academic level with approved teaching partners ONCAMPUS Aston or NCUK.

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2024/25)

Annual tuition fees:£9,250
During placement year:£1,250

International students
(2024/25)

Annual tuition fees:£21,100
During placement year:£2,500

More information on fees

For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy.

For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships 

Assessment

The BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering degree is assessed through a combination of exams, project portfolios, client briefs, lab reports, presentations, and coursework.  Your final degree classification is determined by your performance in all years after the first year.

The assessment methods will reflect the most effective and relevant way to review your performance for each module. Therefore, each module will be assessed in a variety of ways to reflect your knowledge from that module and how you would apply it in the real world. 

Career prospects

Electrical engineering is the backbone of our technology-driven world. Your expertise will be sought after in various industries, guaranteeing a career filled with challenges and endless growth. There is a wide range of exciting career opportunities available to you, from power engineering to zero-carbon industries. 

Electrical and Electronic Engineering is ranked Top 20 in the UK for graduates in professional level work or further study 15 months after graduation (The Guardian University League Tables 2023)

Recent graduates have moved on to roles including Sofware Engineer, Researcher, Embedded Systems Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, and Consultant. They are working for high-profile companies and organisations such as Olympus, Corus, HSBC, Oxford University, Hewlett Packard, Cogent Defence, BAE Systems, Npower, Siemens, Orange, Vodafone, QinetiQ, the National Grid, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar Cars and Microsoft.

Graduation

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

  • Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
  • Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
  • World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
  • Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
  • Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
  • Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham

Does accreditation matter?

Yes. Working towards accreditation with your professional body means that you are among the best in your field.  

This course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Why should I take a year out in industry?

The optional placement year is available with all engineering courses, giving you invaluable practical experience and enhancing your career prospects through a paid professional placement in the UK or abroad.  
We have excellent links with industry and will help to arrange this placement for you. 

Chat with current students

 

Register your interest